Even though I would never participate in certain activities, why should I tell others how to live their lives?

As Catholics, we do believe that there are objective truths that help each of us to live healthy, happy and holy lives. We are living in an information-driven society which bombards us indiscriminately with data – all treated as being of equal importance – and which leads to remarkable superficiality in the area of moral discernment. In response, we need to provide an education which teaches critical thinking and encourages the development of mature moral values.” (Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium, no. 64)

As Catholics we are called to evangelize in the world. Those we are speaking with may not accept our views, and we should not try to force them to, but we should not hesitate to boldly state our beliefs.

Presenting objective truths, however, does not give us the right to be uncharitable or disrespectful. Pope Francis reminds us again and again that by engaging people in civil dialogue and “a culture of encounter” we are more apt to best represent the Church’s teachings, and to enable others to experience a “conversion of mind and heart.”